A Pennsylvania man accused of fatally stabbing a pediatric critical care doctor was previously arrested on burglary charges and released on non-monetary bail, according to court records.
Elijah Hemingway, 32, was taken into custody in July on charges related to a February break-in and theft but was released hours later without financial bail. Records indicate Hemingway had appeared at three hearings regarding the burglary case and was scheduled for a court date on October 1.
Despite the pending burglary case, Hemingway allegedly carried out a violent attack early Thursday morning. Police say he broke into the home of Dr. Idris Evans, a pediatric critical care physician, and his family just after 12:30 a.m. During the incident, Hemingway stabbed Evans as well as his wife while the couple and their young daughters were asleep. Dr. Evans died as a result of his injuries.
Authorities described Hemingway’s behavior during the incident as erratic, noting that he appeared psychotic and was reportedly talking about God and claiming to be God as he entered the couple’s bedroom.
Following the attack, Hemingway was charged with multiple offenses, including criminal homicide, aggravated assault, burglary, and criminal trespass. Law enforcement officials continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the stabbing.